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Numbers-Matching: 1971 Dodge Challenger 340

Dodge was a latecomer to the “pony car” game, not jumping in until 1970 when Plymouth redid the Barracuda. It was popular at first, but demand fell off quickly as the decline in muscle cars spilled over to the corresponding ponies. This ’71 Challenger 340 is a number-matching coupe finished in Hemi Orange paint, a desirable combination. It’s a non-running project that needs a lot of work. Located in Manahawkin, New Jersey, this Mopar is available here on eBay. The current bid is $14,100, the reserve is north of there, and the Buy It Now price is $27,500.

Though the Barracuda and Challenger rode on the same new E-body platform for 1970-74, they didn’t share any sheet metal. The Challenger did have a two-inch wider wheelbase, though. After selling nearly 77,000 Challengers in 1970, the bottom fell out in 1971 and just 27,000 were built (the Barracuda saw a comparative decline as well). The Challenger 340 was somewhat rare in the mix for 1971 as just 2,344 were produced as both coupes and convertibles (the last year for that body style).

The seller’s car is another unfinished project which we’re seeing a lot of lately. The good news is that the 340 engine and 4-speed manual are still there and numbers-matching, but both are going to need some attention in order to run. The same can be said for the wiring which is hanging out below the dashboard while the steering wheel rests in the driver’s front seat.

We’re told the bones on this Challenger are mostly good, though some of the sheet metal has been removed and only partly refastened. The paint is EV2 Hemi Orange which we assume is the applied factory color. A photo of the cowl tag would have been helpful as the seller says he/she has it along with the VIN plate, door tag, build sheet, and title (they’re all said to jive). The principal rust seems to be focused on the hood.

Quite a few parts are new on the Dodge, including the dash pad, retro radio, gas tank and fuel lines, heater core, and brakes. The tires are old and are subject to going flat at any time. The seats will have to be redone, but the headliner and carpeting are said to be good. As was typical of the era, someone cut holes in the door panels for sound speakers. Who’s ready to make this Challenger hum again?

Comments

  1. Avatar bobhess Member

    Could be a good one but the challenge for me is the asking price.

    Like 7
  2. Avatar OldSchool Muscle

    looks like a nightmare under the dash. LOL needs a lot of work . some ones hack job I just domnt get it work on one section at a time why tear down the whole thing, then say Ah ill just sell it … don’t get it. If its a frame of resto of couse but to just pick through the car I don’t do that…

    Like 4
  3. Avatar Biff Grouter

    If I didnt just get my 2022 Mustang 5.0, I wouldve gone for this, had been looking for a 340 car for awhile…

    Like 3
    • Avatar Grant

      You made the right choice. And that comes from a recovering Chrysler addict. I take it one day at a time.

      Like 0
  4. Avatar MoparMike

    Best buy it now price I’ve seen on a non rotted E body for quite a while.

    Like 4
  5. Avatar The Other Chris

    Looks like this one has more metal than rust for a change!

    Like 3
  6. Avatar Shuttle Guy Member

    It will sell. Put “Fatties” on it and avoid the Honda Civic comments. :)

    Like 1
    • Avatar Grant

      You are in denial. Come out of the closet Shuttle Guy. Be proud of your love for the Civic! The times are changing, America is much more tolerant these days. Wave your Honda flag proudly, do not be ashamed of who you are.

      Like 1
      • Avatar Shuttle Guy Member

        My current classic/muscle car is a ’65 Buick Skylark GS. I’ll never go electric or Honda Civic. Wish I could post a picture here.

        Like 2

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